AA demands a legal connection. If the schedule change means there isn't one possible on AA metal between BZE and SEA, AA may refund your ticket - they don't need to pay for a hotel stay. I understand how this is inconvenient, and how one can perceive it as unfair.

Fare class really isn't going to matter in this discussion. AA has handled this rationally for me on discount tickets and awards as well as B/Y/J fares.